We celebrate today, not to glorify war or praise victors, but to remember those who have served our country during times of conflict and crisis, and to reflect upon their selfless sacrifice. It is our duty as the Citizens of Australia by choice or by Birth to pay our tributes to those who sacrifice their life for us.

I participated in the celebration of Israel’s 70th Independence Day in Sydney yesterday. NSW Jewish Board of Deputies organized the celebration at Four Seasons hotel in the CBD, which was attended by the Premier of NSW, Gladys Berejiklian, Minister Ray Williams, many MPs, MLCs, Leader of Opposition, Luke Foley, diplomats from more than 20 nations, multicultural community leaders and faith leaders. Israel’s Ambassador, H.E. Mark Sofer, was in attendance too. He spoke and outlined the achievements of Israel in the field of innovation, technology and agriculture. Premier described the close relationship which NSW has with Israel in a variety of fields. There was a short video speech from Israel’s Prime Minister, H.E. Benjamin Netanyahu.

Like previous years, this event was a high profile celebration. The typical Israeli cuisine and select top grade wines were enjoyed by the guests. The hospitality was excellent. As would be expected, the security was elaborate and tight.

I was pleased to be at the celebration and caught up with many including the Premier, Leader of Opposition and MPs and MLCs.

It can be distressing to see some people, who hate you only because you do good things, which they don’t do or are incapable to do. Their jealousy submerges them into irrational hate for you. Some of these “haters” might even be those whom you helped in one or the other way, but take this on your chin. Remember this famous Sanskrit verse “Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma phaleshou kada chana.”

You may feel some distress about it, which is natural, but a better approach is to have sympathy & pity for such “haters” and continue enjoying what you do for people and community. Stay the course is the best approach.

Remember, haters are gonna hate, because they are shallow and incapable of matching your decency. They might even badmouth you to be in good books of scumbags, against whom you took a stand, opposing their low class, unethical and substandard activities.

No amount of backstabbing, badmouthing or substandard behavior from these “good for nothing” haters should distract you from your chosen path.